Journey Of Alcohol In Your Body
 
Sep 30, 2020
Category:

Introduction

How many of us have ever had one too many shots at a party, waking up in bed with a pounding in your head like there’s a sledgehammer going to town in your skull? That is just one of the many symptoms of alcohol use disorder and if you are here, you probably are looking for a solution to a night of overindulgence. The bad news is that it doesn’t exist. However, you can learn something here that will hopefully make your next drinking session a lot less painful and regretful.

How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your Body?

So here’s the key question, what is alcohol? The average American drinks 2.3 gallons of alcohol a year, but never stopped to consider how this depressant makes its way through the body (and brain). Like everything else that is eaten or drunk, alcohol is broken down by the body for energy through metabolism. An interesting fact is that once it permeates the bloodstream, the body metabolizes it at a constant speed of 20 mg/dL every hour. This means that it would take exactly one hour to break down 200 milligrams of alcohol in a liter of blood. Going by the same logic, it would take three hours to metabolize 600 mg of alcohol in a liter of blood.

If you are asking why everybody is not equally wasted at the end of a party if we drank the same number of beer pints? The answer lies in the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of your blood. The blood alcohol concentration is simply the ratio of alcohol to water in your blood. A higher ratio indicates a higher level of intoxication, which increases the side effects of alcohol on your system. Therefore, it is a given to drink plenty of water in order to reduce BAC levels Even though two people can both have exactly 20mg/DL for their blood alcohol level, they can have the different BAC levels, which will result in differing levels of drunkness.

The most common factors that influence BAC are weight, binge drinking, and drinking on an empty stomach. That being said, age, liver disease, and the medication you are on also affect BAC levels. Do take note that different drinks take differing amounts of time to metabolize completely. A shot of hard liquor takes an hour, a pint of beer takes double that and a glass of wine will require around three hours to metabolize.

How it is Metabolized

For all the talk of alcohol in blood, we have yet to cover on how it enters the bloodstream from your mouth. Roughly 20 percent of your drink goes in your blood vessels and straight to the brain. The other 80 percent actually follow the path of food, entering the esophagus ending its journey in the small intestine. It then enters the bloodstream and is eventually removed by the liver. This is why people with liver issues tend to have higher levels of BAC in general as their systems are slower in removing the alcohol from their system.

Alcohol Detection Tests

To measure the levels of BAC, there are numerous tests that can be conducted. The most common of which is the breath test through a breathalyzer. This device collects the breath of the person being tested and measures the BAC levels instantly. A person with BAC levels greater than 0.02 should not operate heavy machinery or drive in order to prevent safety accidents. Alcohol can be detected through the breath test within 24 hours. For a test that can detect alcohol within the system up to 80 hours after drinking, the urine test is a great alternative if you are looking at more detailed testing methods. However, simpler methods can also detect alcohol up to 48 hours after consumption. This is mostly attributed to the fact that traces of alcohol can be detected for up to 90 days in a person’s hair, and this fact has been used in forensic investigations.

Alcohol and Breastfeeding

Everybody knows that alcohol is to be avoided during pregnancy, but did you know that it affects breastfeeding and the child being breastfed? Alcohol can be transferred to the baby through the umbilical cord and can cause physical and intellectual disabilities. Alcohol in breast milk can cause the same effects and development issues when the baby is breastfed by his mum who had recently consumed alcohol. For breastfeeding mums out there, it is better to abstain from consuming alcohol entirely. If alcohol is to be consumed by the breastfeeding mum, it would be better to pump out and store milk in advance as well as to feed the baby before drinking. Most importantly, after drinking a shot of liquor or a small glass of wine, it is best to stagger a period of three hours before breastfeeding the baby.

Alcohol Poisoning

Finally, we have come to the last but most important part of the article, which is regarding alcohol poisoning. It can be fatal and should be considered a medical emergency. This usually happens when there is an excessive amount of alcohol consumed and when it cannot be metabolized sufficiently quickly. A common cause of alcohol poisoning is binge drinking which causes the victim to continuously imbibe alcohol without understanding the full consequences of their actions.

If the victim passes out, vomits, has a lower blood temperature, and is suffering from slower breathing, there is a good chance that the person is suffering from alcohol poisoning. In the event of such an emergency, an ambulance should be called for and the victim should not be left unattended. While waiting for the ambulance, the victim should be lying on their side to avoid choking on their own vomit.

Conclusion

This article has explored the journey alcohol takes in our body, as well as how long it stays and how it affects us when over-consumed. Drinking can remain a fun and safe social activity when done responsibly and this article hopes to impart some knowledge regarding that.

 
 
List Of The Best Bars In Singapore
 
Aug 17, 2020
Category:

Introduction

Hanging around at a bar with friends while having drinks is definitely one of the best ways to destress after work. But most importantly, the bar itself matters.

If bar hopping is one of your favorite things to do, then look no further! The following features a list of the very top bars in Singapore for you to check them out.

1. Idlewild

Considered one of the most demanded bars in Singapore and visited often by the younger generation, this is one of the bars on the island that serves premium drinks. One of its alluring features is the quiet and welcoming atmosphere, the modern interiors as well as a live band. This bar does not do loud crowds, so its intimate ambiance is ideal for those seeking a quiet place to drink. They also have professional staff and most have deemed this place as the best of both worlds - good drinks, and good music. And for those who prefer unwinding at home, an online liquor store might be the best option for you!

2. Manhattan Bar

If you are the kind of customer who has high standards for their drinks, look no further as Manhattan Bar is known for its top-notch drinks. Although it may be pricey for some, this bar literally offers everything at high quality. From the food to their cocktails, right down to the ambiance provided. It is unsurprising why everyone falls in love with this bar once they have visited. A quirk of this bar is that they serve different foods and drinks every hour, which definitely makes their menu rich in both flavor and style.

3. Smoke & Mirrors

Giving you an overlook of Singapore’s skyline while you sip on your brand of poison while chatting with your friends, Smoke & Mirrors boasts an interesting yet contemporary menu of bites and drinks that will suit every customer’s taste. All drinks in this place are mixed by one of the most well known Spanish bartenders residing in Singapore, Jorge Conda. He comes up with the most intriguing and adventurous drinks you can only experience in this bar, which makes it worth the trip down!

4. The Horse’s Mouth

The Horse’s Mouth does Japanese food so well that it has to be on this list. Although this bar’s capacity is pretty large, it does not feel overwhelming or too squeezy even at the end of the week. It features a calm and quiet crowd that allows you to destress properly after a hard day at work. Being lauded by many customers who found this bar by accident, this bar can be said to be a hidden gem as it is not easy to find at all.

5. Kabuke

Being one of the bars known for both food and cocktails equally, Kabuke is a place where you can go if you have your priorities in order as they close at exactly 12 midnight. This gives you ample time to sleep and prepare for the next day’s work even after drinking. This bar is highly recommended for customers craving for premium Japanese food coupled with a cozy setting.

6. Tipple and Dram

What is different about Tipple and Dram is their wide variety of single malt whiskeys that are not available outside the bar itself, as well as the exclusively curated series of wines by the owner himself. This is a place that every connoisseur and those who are just starting out, should visit. Your experience will be rewarded by the knowledgeable staff and the overall relaxing vibe and atmosphere makes this an ideal place to end your workweek.

7. 1927 Rooftop Bar

Perfect for rooftop parties, the 1927 Rooftop Bar gives you the chance to experience a pool party on one of the most famed hotels in Singapore. The drinks are pricier here due to the downtown view and they especially specialize in rum and Caribbean drinks. The infinity-edged rooftop pool is definitely ideal for Singapore’s all-year-round summer weather, thus making it one of the must-visit bars on this list.

8. IB HQ

One of the most popular bars especially at night, most workers are known to spend their time there after work and this particular place has been featured often in review articles and websites globally. IB HQ also has professional bartenders who definitely know their stuff; offering a whole range of cocktails and sumptuous food to select from. They are also constantly upgrading their menu with new drinks, thus making it a place to visit more than once.

9. Blu Jaz

If your idea of unwinding is partaking in a jamming session with a cocktail in hand, this is the place for you! Featuring multi-levels, they take absolute pride in their range of food and beverages that complement the ambiance entirely.

10. La Maison Du Whisky

The name itself suggests that this is a cavern filled with an extensive deluxe collection of spirits from all over the world. They also boast a fine shelf of other alcoholic drinks such as rum, whiskey, gin, and vodka. If you are looking for a quiet and private time just enjoying your drink alone or with company, this is the place for you.

11. La Terre

Speaking of having an intimate experience with your wine and whiskey, La Terre will bring you that and more. Featuring a seemingly never-ending list of top-grade wine and whiskey among other drinks, this is the model place for you to end the night with drinks. Similar to the La Maison Du Whisky, this particular bar will leave you satisfied with its intimate setting.

12. ZIGGY’S Karaoke & Cocktail Bar

This is for those who enjoy music but wish to listen or even belt out music they especially want to listen to. Being flaunted as one of the best karaoke experiences one can get in Singapore, the karaoke rooms are lavishly decorated yet hidden away from the common eye. ZIGGY’s tips the scale by providing costumes and fancy props to allow their guests to really have an amazing night. This is also the ultimate venue to celebrate a special someone’s birthday, or to hold corporate events

13. The Exciseman Whisky Bar

A bar that was specially opened for the adventurous whiskey-lovers who are always up for a challenge. This bar definitely prides itself on having an extensive selection of not just Whisky, but also literally every other alcoholic beverage. You name it, they have it.

14. Alley Bar

Lastly, the Alley Bar is known for its live band and signature cocktails, as well as mocktails. If you wish to indulge in a fresh shot of martini, this is the place for you! Besides their menu, this bar does their architecture intricately, with an airy ceiling furnished with hanging lamps that will make customers think of vintage houses. This place is both elegant and classy in their drinks AND decor that promises you a wonderful evening ahead.

Conclusion

As seen from the list aforementioned, Singapore has no lack of interesting bars serving quality drinks at more often than not, affordable prices. So be sure to check some out after work today!

 
 
Wine Around the World: International Trends That Can Captivate the Asian Market
 
Jan 16, 2020
Category:

The Asian market contributed to 63% of all wine sales in 2018, according to Southeby’s Annual Market Report. This number has not died and is made manifestly clear in the major wine events across Asia that occurred in 2019. Given the hunger for wine in the Asian market, it is worth exploring which trends have the best chances of succeeding this year.

Wine Is A Click Away

In the eyes of the consumer, convenience is king. Consumers in Asian countries like Singapore and the Philippines are now seeking to purchase their wines in a more convenient manner. Around 46% of consumers in China are now buying their wine from online stores, according to Rachel Arthur. The wine industry has taken note and has added e-commerce channels to reach their target market. With wine offerings simply a few clicks away, consumers can now order white wine from Qantas and other online stores.

Health-Driven Consumerism

There has been a steady rise of health-driven consumerism around the globe and wine-makers are rising to the challenge. Asian consumers tend to prefer red wine with its associated health benefits. Australia, in particular, is leading the market through its production of the local Shiraz grapes that turn into exquisite red wine. The known health benefits of Shiraz-based wines can include lowering the risk of cancer, stroke prevention, and so many others.

Nearby Exporters and New Producers

The biggest trend to help shape the Asian wine industry is the rise of new wine producers and nearer exporters. Historically, the largest wine exporters in the world are from France and Spain. In the span of a few years, China, Japan, and India are developing and exporting their own wines. While the wine industry in China is still relatively young, they have managed to win multiple international awards. In doing so, it effectively showcased that new producers offer substance despite being beginners in an old industry. In effect, wines made more affordable for Asian consumers due to the proximity of exporters.

If the trends are anything to go by, both the local and international wine producers are increasing their efforts to bite into the Asian market. Wine lovers have a lot to look forward to in 2020, with wine markets around the world designed to captivate them. Only time will tell which trend will reign supreme above the others.

 
 
5 Things you should do during your Weekend Getaway in Bangkok
 
Dec 23, 2015
Category:

Bangkok has been in, or around, number one spot as the world's top tourist destination for several years now, and for good reason. This thriving metropolis of more than six million people, which sprawls across more than 1,500 square kilometres, is a vibrant city which successfully displays a rich heritage alongside a thrusting new, modern veneer. Taking the pulse of such a unique place in a weekend is almost impossible, but these top tips will give you a chance – along with a weekend never to forget.

1. The Grand Palace

This dazzling complex of buildings on the banks of the Chao Phraya river was home to the Kings of Siam and, later, Thailand, for almost 150 years, until 1925. Now only used for ceremonial occasions and official events, the palace remains the city's most recognisable landmark, this deeply royalist country's spiritual heart and one of its most visited attractions. It's a must for any visit to Bangkok, and at over 218,000 square metres, there's plenty to see.

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The palace complex is comprised of numerous buildings, halls and pavilions set around open lawns, gardens and courtyards. It includes several majestic and eclectic constructions, including the most important temple in the country, Wat Phra Kaew, so named in Thai after the greatly revered Emerald Buddha housed there, which dates back to the 14th century.

The Outer Court of the palace housed government departments, such as the treasury, army and civil administration. The Inner Court was where the King's royal consorts and daughters lived, and this area is still not open to the public. Visitors are allowed inside the spacious European style reception room or Grand Palace Hall. There is also the opulent Dusit Hall, the antique throne room and a museum detailing the palace's history.

2. The Hangover Tour

This tour takes you around some of the locations made famous – as opposed to simply infamous! – by the movie The Hangover Part 2. It also provides a great and safe way to visit the seedier parts of Bangkok (and a cast-iron excuse, too!)

Guided by an experienced 'nightlife specialist', the tour visits featured bars from the movie in the nightlife hotspots of Soi Cowboy, Patpong and Nana. Also included are visits to other venues, such as for Thai boxing bouts and go-go shows. The overall experience can be tailored to suit the particular tastes of the group, and it's good to know that the 'seediness factor' can be turned up or down. The duration of the night can also be adjusted to fit the good sense / wildness of the group, returning you safely to your hotel by midnight, or else to a club to party through the night.

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3. Chatuchak Market

With more than 8000 stalls arranged in 27 sections, Chatuchak is certainly Thailand's biggest market and one of the largest in the world. It opens on Friday evening and runs through the whole weekend, and with plenty of great places to dine and snack along the way, as well as the occasional live act to enjoy, Chatuchak is a great day-out.

The market's 27 sections offer a range of goods that are grouped into nine categories: plants, antiques, pets, food and drink, fresh and dry food, ceramics, furniture and home decoration, clothes, and books. There's plenty to see even if you aren’t tempted to buy anything – and most likely, you will be.

Clothing dominates the market, from youth items to those from more sophisticated labels. The home decoration section is a great place for inexpensive Thai ceramics. And many of the plants stalls are also open on weekday afternoons. Thankfully, there's an information centre and maps to find your way around – and your way back out!

4. Tuk Tuk Tour

The tuk tuk is another great symbol of the country and zipping around Bangkok in one is a truly unmissable fun experience. While the vast majority of tuk tuk drivers are reputable, a few will try and take tourists for a ride in more ways than one. With an established tuk tuk tour and English speaking guide, you can't go wrong.

You can take a day tour that takes in such sites as Phra Sumeru Fortress, Thammasart University, where you will learn some of the history of the area, the temple of Wat Pho, birthplace of Thai massage, Phahurat Market in the heart of Little India, and the 'Thieves Market', so named for its now, thankfully, lapsed reputation for dealing in stolen goods. The tour concludes at Wat Saket with its 360 degree view of the surrounding Rattanakosin Island.

A night-time tour affords a different view of the city, its tourist sites quieter and, perhaps, more beautiful, lit up for the evening. This is certainly true of Wat Pho, which at night instead is far calmer and emanates a mystic atmosphere. The flower market wakes up at night and is a riot of colours, and activity, too. The tour also stops for some delicious sampling opportunities of the best in Thai street food.

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5. Sing Sing Bar and Theatre

For an especially memorable evening out in Bangkok, visit Sing Sing Bar and Theatre in Sukhumvit. New for late 2015, this retro-futuristic venue is described by its designer as "a classy cool sexed up hiso club" set amidst a warren of hidden rooms.

The highly creative design integrates feng shui elements into a concept loosely modelled on a Chinese brothel theme. Here, intricate wrought ironwork features dragon motifs, beautiful lanterns hang from the ceiling, and elegant hostesses complete the look in classic Qipao dresses.

You can see live performances on the stage here, including international recording artists, erotic dance, comedy and martial arts. From midnight onwards, DJs spin hip dance music, including electronica and house, for a cool crowd.